Possible Dandelion Side Effects, Precautions and Contraindications

Are you concerned about any possible dandelion side effects from using the herb?

Do realize that dandelion is generally considered to be a relatively gentle herb without any serious side effects. Having said that, one should still have an overall idea of some of the potential side effects, precautions, drug interactions and contraindications of using the dandelion herb. This, in fact, applies to the use of any natural or herbal remedies.

Here are some pointers for any users of any part of the dandelion plant to take note of.

Some people have reported allergic reactions from merely touching dandelion and hence one needs to be careful about using dandelion. This, though, is rare.

Try not to use dandelion flowers, leaves, stem or dandelion roots if they are sprayed with chemicals and pesticides. In other words, try to get organic dandelion.

Some dandelion side effects may occur from using the juice of the plant. Dandelion juice extracted from the stem or roots can induce nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea and increased urination. This is mainly due its diuretic properties.

People with gallbladder conditions and gallstones must exercise caution before starting on dandelion remedies, as the dandelion herb can contribute to cleansing and detox reactions for these conditions, which would come across as side effects. Ideally, a qualified professional who has expertise in herbal remedies should be consulted.

People who are on pharmaceutical drugs that have a diuretic action should not take dandelion root or other dandelion variations. In this case, one of the possible side effects of dandelion root is that it could lower the effect of the synthetic drug. Of course, this is not really a dandelion root side effect, per se, but rather a potential interaction with diuretic drugs. Personally, I use herbal and natural remedies ahead of any chemical drug medications, anytime.

People on diabetes medications should also be aware that dandelion or any dandelion supplement might increase the blood sugar lowering effects of those pharmaceutical drugs. In this scenario, this could be a potentially dangerous dandelion side effect. Ideally, the primary care physician should be consulted. Do note, however, that most medical doctors have zero or close-to-zero knowledge on herbs and herbal remedies.

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